First 100 Days of Running a Microschool! Two founders share their startup stories
Nov 10, 2023
auto_awesome
Mercedes Grant and Isis Spann, founders of microschools in VA and SC, share their startup stories and advice as education entrepreneurs. They discuss scaling Kipot, benefits of joining a community, freedom of running a microschool, recognition in South Carolina, starting up and scaling challenges, and how to connect with microschools.
Building strong relationships and adapting to change are crucial for the success of a microschool.
Microschools offer freedom, flexibility, and close-knit communities that foster joy, individualized learning, and strong relationships.
Deep dives
Insights from Mercedes Grant's Experience
Mercedes Grant shares her experience of opening her micro school, Path of Life Learning, and the unexpected success it garnered in a short span of time. With a waitlist and growing enrollment, Mercedes highlights the importance of building relationships with students and families, while also learning to adapt and let go of initial expectations. Additionally, she emphasizes the affordability and alternative education options her micro school provides for families who are seeking a change from traditional schooling.
Highlights of Isis Spann's Journey
Isis Spann discusses her transformative experience as a classroom teacher transitioning into education entrepreneurship with her micro school in South Carolina. She shares how the Kai Pod Catalyst program played a crucial role in helping her shift her mindset and gain the confidence to navigate the challenges of starting and running a micro school. Isis emphasizes the importance of balancing both the educational and business aspects of being an entrepreneur and encourages new teachers to explore opportunities beyond the traditional classroom setting.
The Benefits of Micro School Models
Both Mercedes and Isis emphasize the benefits of the micro school model. They highlight the freedom and flexibility it offers to parents and teachers, allowing them to create learner-centered environments tailored to the needs and preferences of students. They also stress the significance of the close-knit community and support provided by micro schools, enabling students to experience joy, individualized learning, and strong relationships. Both educators express their desire to inspire and assist others in starting their own micro schools.
Advice for Education Entrepreneurs
As experienced education entrepreneurs, Mercedes and Isis offer valuable advice to those embarking on their own micro school journey. They highlight the importance of being kind to oneself, embracing the learning curve, and seeking support from the community. They encourage founders to stay true to their vision and purpose, avoid comparing themselves to others, and acknowledge the crucial role of the individuals who have supported them from the beginning. Lastly, they remind aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on serving their students and families, emphasizing the transformative impact they can create.
Mercedes Grant and Isis Spann are two founders who launched their microschools this fall in Virginia and South Carolina, respectively. They share their startup experiences, surprises, and challenges, and offer advice to new education entrepreneurs.